West Ham United have received mixed news over Keiber Lamadrid after tests reportedly ruled out a serious knee injury, although the winger is still expected to spend between two and three weeks on the sidelines.
Lamadrid suffered the problem during West Ham’s final pre-season friendly against Magdeburg and was forced off during the second half.
There were initially fears that the 22-year-old could have sustained a significant injury. However, Sport Witness reports, citing Venezuelan outlet Meridiano, that medical examinations have ruled out major complications. Lamadrid is instead expected to miss around two to three weeks.
That is a relief for Nuno Espírito Santo, but the timing remains frustrating for a player who had pushed himself firmly into the first-team conversation.
Keiber Lamadrid injury changes Nuno’s Portsmouth plans
Lamadrid started West Ham’s final three friendlies against Stevenage, Rangers and Magdeburg, suggesting Nuno was seriously considering him for the start of the competitive campaign.
That possibility was highlighted by ReadWestHam earlier on Thursday in our look at the five decisions Nuno must make before facing Portsmouth. Lamadrid’s potential involvement was one of the main selection questions after his substantial pre-season workload.
The latest injury news effectively removes that decision for Saturday.
Lamadrid’s performances had become particularly interesting following Crysencio Summerville’s departure. The Venezuelan has been used in midfield and wider positions during pre-season, giving Nuno another versatile option within a squad that is still being rebuilt.
His absence should therefore create opportunities elsewhere.
West Ham have several younger players competing for minutes, with Lewis Orford and Ollie Scarles among those pushing for first-team roles. ReadWestHam’s Portsmouth analysis also highlighted the importance of Nuno deciding how much trust to place in the club’s younger players.
There is at least encouragement in the medical results.
The latest report states that West Ham’s medical staff expect Lamadrid to be sidelined for around two to three weeks, which could rule him out of the Portsmouth tie and the opening Championship fixtures against Charlton Athletic and Watford.
A return around the end of August or start of September would be considerably better than the serious knee problem initially feared.
For a player attempting to establish himself permanently in Nuno’s plans, the priority will now be ensuring a minor setback does not become a longer one.
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